Trainee Networking Development Suite

Monday, June 15, 2026

Baltimore Convention Center, Room 345

From Frustration to Fulfillment Making Mentorship Work for You: A Forum for Trainees to Share, Learn, and Build Better Mentoring Relationships
11:45 am – 12:45 pm
Special Guests: Michael Grandner, PhD, MTR, DBSM| Philip Cheng, PhD| Katie Sharkey MD, PhD, FAASM, FACP
This panel will provide trainees with practical strategies in building meaningful connections. The discussion will focus on how to choose mentors who align with your research interests, clarify expectations for collaboration, and understand the ways a strong mentorship can enhance your skills and serve as a foundation for a successful career in sleep research.

Tuesday, June 16, 2026

Baltimore Convention Center, Room 345

Transition From Graduate School Opportunities and Strategies to Find the Best Fit: Navigating the Academic Job Market
7:00 am – 8:00 am
Special Guests: Alexandria Reynolds, PhD| Christine Spadola, PhD, LMHC, MS| Miranda Chappel-Farley, PhD
This panel will help trainees prepare for the transition from graduate school to the next phase of their careers. The panelists will discuss how to identify opportunities that align with your goals, strategies for navigating the academic job market, and tips for evaluating positions to find the best fit for long-term success.

*Please be advised that this panel will take place in the morning due to the SRS Annual Membership Meeting scheduled for 11:45am.

Wednesday, June 17, 2026

Baltimore Convention Center, Room 345

Funding Beyond Federal Agencies: Securing Research Funding Within Federal Agencies in the Current Political Climate
11:45 am – 12:45 pm
Special Guests: Dane Christiansen, MBA| Dayna Johnson, PhD
This panel will explore strategies for securing research funding within federal agencies amid today’s shifting political climate. The discussion will cover key funding mechanisms, fellowships, alternative sources, and healthcare advocacy. Trainees will gain practical guidance on what to look for, what to ask, and how to position themselves for success in the current funding landscape.

*This information has been updated as of 4/9/2026 and is subject to change.